What's Your Sign?

commercial sign design illustration of street signage

In the bustling streets of cities and the quaint corners of small towns, one element stands as a silent yet powerful communicator: building signage. It's more than just a tool for identification—it's an integral part of a brand's identity and a subtle yet significant influencer of public perception. This article will explore why thoughtfully designed building signage is crucial for businesses and organizations.

Creating a First Impression and Reinforcing Brand Identity 

The adage, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression," rings especially true when it comes to building signage. A sign is often the first point of contact between a business and its potential customers. Well-designed signage captures attention and conveys a company’s professionalism and attention to detail. It's an opportunity to make a strong, positive impression before a customer walks through the door.

Building signage is a physical manifestation of a brand's identity. Colors, fonts, and design styles should align with the overall branding strategy. This consistency helps in reinforcing brand recognition. When a sign echoes a brand's ethos, it strengthens the connection with its audience, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust.

Enhancing Visibility & Accessibility

In a landscape crowded with visual stimuli, standout signage ensures that a business doesn't get lost in the shuffle. Thoughtfully designed signs are visually appealing and enhance a building's visibility, making it easier for customers to locate the business. This aspect is particularly crucial for new or small businesses seeking to establish their presence in a competitive market.

Too often, organizations opt for the largest rendering of the logo or the most obnoxious version possible in an effort to get attention. Creating signage that looks awkward, unbalanced, or crammed in a space too small will only make your brand look careless and unprofessional. The companies that build and install signs may occasionally be without a team member with an eye for your aesthetic. To avoid expensive mistakes, consult a professional designer to provide a visual rendering first to ensure your sign size and scale are acceptable for the space.

Contributing to the Aesthetic Appeal of the Community

Beyond serving the interests of a business, well-designed building signage contributes to the community's aesthetic appeal. A sign that is harmonious with its surroundings, whether it's a historic district or a modern urban center, can enhance an area’s overall look and feel. Thoughtful signage design considers not only the business but also the community it resides in, respecting local culture and architectural styles.

Compliance, Safety, and the Bottom Line

Effective signage goes beyond aesthetics; It entails compliance with local regulations and safety standards. Thoughtful design incorporates these aspects, ensuring that signs are not just attractive but also safe and lawful. This consideration is crucial for avoiding legal issues and ensuring the safety of both employees and customers.

Thoughtfully designed building signage is an investment that yields multifaceted returns. It's a blend of art, strategy, and compliance, creating a powerful tool for business success and community enhancement. Whether it's a small boutique or a large corporation, a sign speaks volumes about the business it represents. In a world where attention is fleeting, a well-designed sign can be the anchor that draws and retains customer interest, contributing significantly to a business's success.

In conclusion, building signage should never be an afterthought. It's a critical component of branding and marketing strategies, vital to a business’s visibility and public perception. Investing in high-quality, thoughtfully designed signage is investing in the business's future, ensuring it stands out and communicates effectively in a crowded marketplace.


UNANIMOUS is a full-service branding agency based in the heart of the Midwest—Lincoln, Nebraska. They have partnered with clients to develop strong brand alignment through strategic marketing, creative design, engaging websites, and compelling video projects of all sizes. UNANIMOUS is known for collaborative partnerships and works with various clients nationwide. The agency prides itself on rhyme, reason, and results.

Contact us to learn more: info@BeUNANIMOUS.com or 402.423.5447